Norway captain Martin Odegaard said on June 14 he has no concerns about his fitness ahead of Norway's opening World Cup Group I match against Iraq on June 16 in Foxborough, Massachusetts [1, 2]. "I feel good. I don't know what you're so worried about - yes, I've had some trouble, as you know, but I feel good now," Odegaard told reporters [1]. He added that Norway’s strong qualifying performance has raised expectations, but emphasized focus on the Iraq match, saying, "That's where we've set the standard, after what we've done in qualifying. We're changing expectations, that's good and I'm not going to say that's wrong. Now it's Iraq that matters" [2].
Norway qualified for the 2026 World Cup by winning all 8 of their group games, scoring 37 goals and conceding 5. This marks their return after missing the last six World Cups [1, 2]. Key to their dominance was striker Erling Haaland, who scored many goals, while Odegaard controlled the midfield [1, 2]. Norway coach Stale Solbakken confirmed both players were fit for the opener, noting Haaland’s sharp form in training [1, 2].
Haaland impressed on June 13 during Norway’s training session. Solbakken said, "He had his best training session yesterday, 11 against 11, and he had the goal of the year. It would have been the goal of the year in the World Cup if it had been broadcast, a volley from 20 meters - if it had hit (goalkeeper Egil) Selvik, he would have been killed, but luckily it went into the corner" [2].
Odegaard recently lifted the English Premier League title with Arsenal [1, 2], adding to his confidence heading into the tournament.
Norway will face Iraq in their first Group I match on June 16 in Foxborough, a crucial step as they seek to build on their perfect qualifying record [1, 2].